A wave of opportunity and environmental stewardship has swept across the territory, as the Department of Waste Management’s latest beautification project employs 225 youngsters aged 11 to 17.
The initiative, which kicked off on Monday, July 15, and will run through Friday, July 19, offers young people a chance to earn, learn, and contribute to their communities.
The programme, aimed at enhancing the aesthetic appeal of every district in the territory, has been lauded for its dual focus on employment and environmental education.
Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative.
“I am happy to see this initiative continue as it affords our young people another opportunity to interact with the environment and enhance their social responsibility to take care of it. We are trying to create a more environmentally considerate and responsive community and the youth is a vital part of the process,” he stated.
Participants in the programme are gaining hands-on experience in environmental management and learning the importance of maintaining clean and beautiful surroundings. Each district is focusing on specific projects, ranging from beach and roadway cleanups to painting walls and buildings. These projects are carefully planned and overseen by team leaders who ensure that the efforts are both productive and educational.
Director of Waste Management, Marcus Solomon, highlighted the project’s progress and the dedication shown by the young participants.
“So far we have been seeing progress photos and I can say that the children are doing a wonderful job. We hope to continue this programme and continue to inspire the youth to be more environmentally conscious,” he stated.